Even though more than a week has passed since the fifth and final Test between England and India at the Kennington Oval in South London, the hangover of the tourists’ victory is yet to get over as they drew the series by a 2-2 margin. At a point when Joe Root and Harry Brook were going through a dominating and strong partnership in the fourth innings, India's victory looked quite impossible. 

However, a report has claimed that during the opening day of the fixture, India’s throwdown specialist, Raghu, played the Shri Shiv Rudrashtakam in the dressing room to uplift the Blue Brigade’s spirits when they were in a difficult situation. The team was at a struggling position of 38/2, as the atmosphere was heavy.

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Rudrashtakam is a prayer dedicated to Lord Shiva and is generally played to boost morale and prove the positive influence during a challenging period. It occurred during the final game of the series when India faced an uphill battle after a poor start with the ball.  

Know how Shri Shiv Rudrashtakam Stotra contributed to India’s victory during ENG vs IND 5th Test

The Rudrashtakam, which begins with the verse ‘Namamishamisshan nirvana Rupam,’ is believed to have had a calming and inspiring effect on the Indian players. It helped them to regroup and ultimately contribute to their comeback and series victory. Raghu’s gesture was the source of inspiration for the side during a crucial moment in the encounter.

The visitors scored 224 runs in the first innings after they lost the toss on a green surface. Karun Nair was the leading run-getter of the first innings with 57 runs in 109 balls, with the help of eight boundaries. The home side was on track to gain a good lead until the Indian bowlers showed their excellence with the ball.

In the third innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s century and a fine 53-run knock in 46 balls from Washington Sundar set the stage for the visitors’ victory. But it still looked next to impossible, before Mohammed Siraj’s fifth morning spell of three wickets claimed the win as he ended with figures of 5/104 in 30.1 overs.